Festival of the Arts Boca is accepting entries for its annual Virtual Youth Music Competition, open to string students age 18 and younger who live in Palm Beach or Broward counties.
Applicants have until Dec. 31, 2026, to submit an application, make a $25 donation to the festival and provide a video performance lasting five to 15 minutes. The competition has one level and no required repertoire, allowing entrants to choose a piece that best demonstrates their abilities.
The top three musicians will divide $9,500 in cash awards. First place, presented by Baptist Health South Florida, includes $5,000 and a performance at a Festival of the Arts Boca event in 2028. Second place receives $3,000, while third place receives $1,500.
Winners are scheduled to be announced during the festival's March 6, 2027, concert. Festival of the Arts Boca said the virtual competition began during the pandemic, when young musicians had fewer performance opportunities. Its subject focus rotates among strings, winds and brass, and piano.
The festival's 21st season is set for March 5 through 14, 2027, at Mizner Park in Boca Raton, with 10 nights of music, dance, film and ideas.
